DE102016001327A1 - Dual polarized antenna - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a dual polarized antenna comprising a dipole radiator (1), a cavity resonator radiator (2) and a reflector (3). The invention is characterized in that the cavity resonator radiator (2q) is arranged below the reflector (3) and radiates through a slot (4) in the reflector, and that the dipole radiator (1) above the reflector (3). is arranged, wherein a signal line (5) and / or a support (19) of the dipole radiator (1) passes through the slot (4).

Description

The present invention relates to a dual polarized antenna comprising a dipole radiator, a cavity resonator radiator and a reflector. In particular, this is a dual polarized antenna for a mobile radio base station.

In the field of mobile radio antennas, dual polarized antennas are usually provided by the dipoles or slit radiators, the two orthogonal polarizations being produced by a 90 ° rotation of two identical radiators. As a result, however, dual polarized antennas require relatively much volume in both directions of polarization.

Various attempts have already been made to improve the space requirements of orthogonally polarized antennas by using different radiators and in particular by a combination of a dipole radiator and a cavity resonator radiator or a slot radiator.

From publication US 6,166,701 A For example, a dual polarized antenna arrangement is known in which a plurality of cavity resonators emitting via slits in their top are juxtaposed. Between the individual cavity resonators plates are arranged, which carry a plurality of dipole antennas. Both the hollow resonator emitters and dipole emitters are supplied with signals via cavity waveguides.

From the publication US 2012/0081255 A1 Furthermore, a dual-polarized antenna is known, in which one of the two polarizations is provided via a box-type open-top box. Out of the box looks a dipole radiator, which provides the second polarization. The box with the dipole radiator is arranged on a reflector.

The pamphlets EP 2 256 864 A1 . US 5,272,487 A . US 4,839,663 A and CN 102420352 A show in each case antenna arrangements in which dipole radiators are arranged in the region of a slot radiator and are connected in parallel with this.

Other antenna arrangements are known from US Pat. No. 7,498,994 B2 and the US Pat. No. 6,424,309 B1 known.

The object of the present invention is to provide a compact dual polarized antenna. Preferably, the dual polarized antenna should have a low radiation angle.

This object is achieved by a dual polarized antenna according to claim 1. Preferred embodiments of the present invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

The present invention comprises a dual polarized antenna having a dipole radiator, a cavity resonator radiator and a reflector. According to the invention the cavity resonator is arranged below the reflector and radiates through a slot in the reflector. The dipole radiator is arranged above the reflector. In a first variant, a signal line of the dipole radiator is guided through the slot in the reflector. In a second variant, a carrier of the dipole radiator passes through the slot. Both variants are independently subject of the present invention. Preferably, however, both variants are used in combination.

The dual polarized antenna according to the present invention is thus different from known dual polarized antennas, which consists of a combination of two rotated by 90 ° to each other identical radiator, two radiators of different types. This results in a compact design in the direction of one of the polarizations as well as combination and nesting possibilities with further antennas. Furthermore, a good separation between the dipole radiator and the cavity resonator and a good directional characteristic is achieved by the arrangement of the radiator above or below the reflector. The guided through the slot signal line avoids interference in the radiation characteristic of the cavity resonator. The guided through the slot support allows a particularly simple construction and easy positioning of the dipole radiator over the slot. Preferably, the signal line and / or the carrier extends from the cavity of the cavity resonator radiator through the slot upwards.

Preferably, the dual polarized antenna of the present invention is an antenna for a mobile radio base station.

Preferably, the dipole radiator is electrically connected via the signal line, which is guided through the slot, to a feed point arranged below the reflector. At the feed point, the signal line may, for example, be connected to a coaxial cable. However, in an alternative embodiment in which only the carrier passes through the slot, the feed point may also be above the reflector.

Alternatively or additionally, the dipole radiator is preferably guided through the slot Carrier mechanically held at an arranged below the reflector attachment point, and in particular connected via the carrier with the cavity of the cavity resonator housing forming.

In a first embodiment of the present invention, the dipole radiator and / or the signal line of the dipole radiator is formed by the metallization of a printed circuit board, which extends from the cavity of the cavity radiator up through the slot. The circuit board thus forms the carrier of the dipole radiator and also carries the signal line of the dipole radiator.

The signal line can be designed in particular as microstrip line and / or coupled microstrip line and / or coplanar strip line or coplanar slot line on the circuit board, which extends on the circuit board from the cavity through the slot upwards. The two arms of the dipole radiator are preferably formed by a metallization of the printed circuit board applied on one side, in the case of a ballanced signal line. In the case of an unballanced signal line, the two arms of the dipole radiator are preferably formed by a metallization of the printed circuit board applied on both sides.

The printed circuit board preferably has a feed point of the dipole radiator. Alternatively or additionally, it may comprise one or more mechanical attachment points for attachment to the cavity forming the cavity of the cavity.

In possible embodiments of the present invention, the metallization of the printed circuit board may further comprise an impedance matching and / or a filter structure and / or a hybrid coupler and / or a balun and / or a field balancing structure for feeding symmetrical and / or differential antennas.

Preferably, the circuit board extends through the slot perpendicular to the plane of the reflector. Preferably, the printed circuit board extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the slot and / or along a central axis of the slot.

The circuit board may be mechanically connected mechanically to a bottom plate, the side walls, the cavity ceiling plate, or side ends of the slot.

In a second embodiment of the present invention, the dipole radiator and / or the signal line of the dipole radiator and / or the carrier of the dipole radiator is realized by a sheet metal structure and / or as air ducts. In particular, the signal lines formed by a sheet metal structure can simultaneously form the carrier of the dipole radiator. In addition, in this case, further support elements may be provided for the sheet metal structure, which need not necessarily pass through the slot and may, for example, consist of dielectric material. Preferably, a base region of the sheet metal structure forms the signal line of the dipole radiator and / or the carrier of the dipole radiator and extends out of the cavity of the cavity radiator up through the slot. Furthermore, a head region of the sheet metal structure can form the dipole radiator.

The sheet metal structure may be designed in the same way and / or comprise the same elements as the above-described metallization of a printed circuit board, except that in contrast to the embodiment with a printed circuit board is dispensed with a substrate.

The sheet metal structure may be stamped from a sheet metal plate and / or be formed by the bending of sheet metal elements.

Furthermore, an excitation structure for exciting the cavity radiator can be provided, which extends within the cavity of the cavity resonator radiator. The excitation structure can be formed in particular by two conductors extending within the cavity.

The excitation structure preferably extends and / or the conductors extend perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the slot and / or parallel to the plane of the reflector. In particular, the excitation structure can extend perpendicularly to a printed circuit board carrying the dipole radiator and / or the signal line of the dipole radiator.

Alternatively or additionally, the excitation structure with respect to the longitudinal extension of the slot can be arranged centrally below the slot in the cavity.

In a first embodiment, the conductors of the excitation structure are the inner conductor and the outer conductor of a coaxial cable. In particular, a portion of the coaxial cable having an outer conductor and an inner conductor may extend from a side wall of the cavity to below the slot. From there, the inner conductor is preferably guided further in the direction of the other side wall, while the outer conductor ends below the slot. The outer conductor and / or the inner conductor may be electrically coupled to the respective side wall, in particular capacitively or galvanically.

In a second embodiment, the conductors of the excitation structure are air waveguides. In particular, the excitation structure can be formed as a sheet metal structure.

In a third embodiment, the conductors of the excitation structure of the cavity radiator are formed by the metallization of a printed circuit board. The printed circuit board may preferably extend perpendicular to a printed circuit board carrying the signal line and / or the dipole radiator. Preference is given to a microstrip line and / or coupled microstrip line and / or coplanar stripline or coplanar slot line is provided, which extends from a side wall to below the slot, wherein one of the conductors is continued from there in the direction of the second side wall, while the other ladder ends under the slot.

Furthermore, the excitation structure and / or the circuit board carrying the excitation structure may have a feed point arranged outside the cavity of the cavity radiator, wherein a coaxial cable is preferably contacted in the feed point with a line arranged on the printed circuit board or formed by a sheet metal structure. Preferably, the printed circuit board or sheet metal structure passes through a recess in a side wall of the cavity of the cavity resonator in the region of the feed point. The printed circuit board or sheet metal structure may be mechanically connected to one or both side walls of the cavity.

Irrespective of the specific design of the conductors of the excitation structure, the first conductor preferably extends over a first part of its extension parallel to the second conductor and together with the latter forms a closed or open waveguide. Preferably, the second conductor ends below the slot. Further preferably, the second part of the conductor is exposed, so that the free part of the second conductor together with the first conductor forms the excitation structure for the cavity resonator. In this case, one or both conductors may be electrically coupled to the sidewalls of the resonator.

According to one possible embodiment of the present invention, the excitation structure of the cavity resonator and, in particular, at least one conductor of the excitation structure can pass through a recess in the carrier and in particular the printed circuit board supporting the dipole radiator and / or the signal line of the dipole radiator or the sheet metal structure forming the latter. This results in a particularly compact arrangement. The recess in the printed circuit board or the sheet-metal structure, through which the excitation structure passes, may be closed, d. H. form a breakthrough through the printed circuit board or the sheet metal structure. In another embodiment, however, the recess may also be open to the outside, for example in the form of a slot, which allows an even simpler installation, since the excitation structure of the cavity resonator and the printed circuit board or the sheet metal structure for the dipole radiator can be pushed into each other. In particular, a printed circuit board carrying the excitation structure or a sheet metal structure forming this can pass through the cutout in the printed circuit board carrying the dipole radiator and / or the signal line of the dipole radiator or the sheet metal structure forming this. Preferably, in this case, it is an opening that is open towards the outside.

Furthermore, it can be provided according to the invention that the excitation structure and preferably both conductors of the excitation structure of the cavity resonator extend or extend into the cavity through a side wall of the cavity of the cavity resonator. This results in a particularly compact connection for the excitation structure of the cavity resonator. Preferably, the excitation structure of the cavity resonator is mechanically connected to the side wall of the cavity of the cavity, and in particular in the opening in the side wall of the cavity of the cavity, through which the excitation structure is guided into the cavity determined. In one possible embodiment of the present invention, the excitation structure may also be mechanically connected to the opposite side wall of the cavity.

In the case of the dual-polarized antenna according to the invention, the feed point of the dipole radiator is preferably arranged below an excitation structure of the cavity resonator radiator in the cavity of the cavity radiator radiator, in particular in a bottom region of the cavity. Alternatively, it can be arranged feed point outside and preferably below the cavity of the cavity resonator, in particular below a bottom plate of the cavity. In both cases, the radiation of the cavity resonator is not or only slightly influenced by the coupling of the dipole radiator.

Preferably, in the feed point of the dipole radiator, a coaxial cable can be contacted with a line arranged on a printed circuit board or formed by a sheet metal structure. The feed point is located in the cavity of the cavity resonator, the coaxial line preferably extends in the bottom region of the cavity above the bottom plate, and thus has only a minor effect on the radiation characteristics of the Hohlraumresonatorstrahlers. Even less is the influence, if the feeding point is provided below the cavity and in particular below a bottom plate of the cavity, so that the coaxial cable extends outside the cavity. In particular, a region of the printed circuit board or of the sheet metal structure which carries the feed point can be guided through the bottom plate of the hollow space.

The excitation structure may have at least one metallic matching structure and / or radiator structure. Such an adaptation structure and / or emitter structure can simplify the release of the wave from the excitation structure.

Preferably, the matching structure and / or the radiator structure increases the width of the conductors of the excitation structure to the outside.

Alternatively or additionally, the matching structure and / or the radiator structure may comprise a metallic body, wherein the metallic body is preferably arranged around the excitation structure of the cavity resonator. Preferably, a metallic body, which further preferably has a cylindrical and / or conical section, is arranged around both conductors of the excitation structure. Further preferably, the conductors of the excitation structure of the cavity resonator can thereby pass axially through the body.

The matching structure and / or the radiator structure can form an additional radiator, in particular a dipole radiator, which excites the cavity resonator radiator. Alternatively or additionally, the matching structure and / or radiator structure can act as a parasitic element.

In one possible embodiment of the present invention, at least one dielectric body may be arranged in the cavity of the cavity resonator. This can reduce the size of the cavity.

Further preferably, the cavity resonator can be filled at locations of high and / or low electrical field strengths with one or more metallic and / or dielectrics bodies.

According to the invention, collar-shaped wall regions can extend along the edges of the slot. As a result, the edges of the slot are formed by wall portions which extend at least also in the height direction. The wall regions forming the edges thereby considerably improve the directional characteristic of the cavity resonator radiator. The wall areas may extend above and / or below the reflector. In a preferred embodiment, the wall areas extend circumferentially along the edges of the slot.

The wall regions preferably form a step with the reflector. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the wall regions may be perpendicular to the plane formed by the reflector. However, arrangements are also conceivable in which the wall regions extend obliquely to the plane of the reflector.

Furthermore, embodiments are conceivable in which the wall regions form a plurality of stages.

In the following, preferred dimensions of the dual polarized antenna according to the invention are described in more detail. The individual dimensions are in each case of advantage, and can be combined as desired.

As far as the dimensions are given as a function of lambda, lambda is the wavelength of the center frequency of the lowest resonant frequency range of the respective radiator.

Generally, in the context of the present invention, a resonant frequency range refers to a coherent frequency range of the radiator which has a return loss of better than 6 dB, or better still 10 dB or better 15 dB. The individual limit values of the return loss depend on the specific application of the antenna. The center frequency is defined as the arithmetic mean of the highest and lowest frequencies in the resonant frequency range.

The resonant frequency range and thus the center frequency are inventively preferably determined with respect to the impedance position in the Smith chart, assuming subsequent elements for optimal impedance matching and / or impedance transformation.

The wavelength lambda is the wavelength in the respective medium. Therefore, if the cavity is filled with a dielectric, the dimensions of the cavity and the slot are related to the wavelength in the dielectric.

In the context of the use of the dual-polarized antenna according to the invention, the lowest resonant frequency range is preferably understood to mean the lowest resonant frequency range of the antenna used for transmitting and / or receiving.

The collar-shaped wall regions, which extend along the edges of the slit, preferably have an extension in the vertical direction between 0.01 lambda and 0.4 lambda, preferably between 0.05 lambda and 0.2 lambda. Lambda is the wavelength of the center frequency of the lowest resonant frequency range of the cavity resonator radiator. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the wall portions may have a constant height.

According to the present invention, the cavity resonator radiates through a slot in the reflector. The cavity of the cavity is therefore wider than the slot at least in a portion. The invention has the advantage that the dipole radiator is better decoupled from the cavity resonator and / or achieved a higher directivity, as he sees the reflector substantially.

Preferably, the side walls extending in the longitudinal direction of the cavity of the cavity resonator are arranged in the width direction spaced from the edges of the slot. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the side walls follow the shape of the edges of the slot, in particular with a certain distance.

Preferably, the distance between the sidewalls and the widthwise edges is less than 0.25 lambda and more preferably less than 0.15 lambda, where lambda is the wavelength of the center frequency of the lowest resonant frequency range of the cavity resonator. Alternatively or additionally, the distance between the side walls and the edges in the width direction may be greater than 0.05 lambda and preferably greater than 0.1 lambda, where lambda is the wavelengths of the center frequency of the lowest resonant frequency range of the cavity resonator.

Alternatively or additionally, the distance between the side walls and the widthwise edges may be between 0.5 times and 1.5 times the smallest width of the slot.

Particularly preferably, the distance in the width direction between the side walls and the edges is constant, d. H. the side walls follow the course of the edges at a constant distance.

Also in the length direction, the side walls may be spaced from the end of the slot. In this case, the distance in the length direction is less than 0.25 lambda and more preferably less than 0.15 lambda, where lambda is the wavelength of the center frequency of the lowest resonant frequency range of the cavity resonator.

In an alternative embodiment, however, the distance between the side walls in the longitudinal direction of the slot may correspond to the length of the slot.

By one of the above dimensions, on the one hand results in a very compact in the width direction radiator, on the other hand, has a good radiation characteristics.

Particularly preferably, the cavity of the cavity resonator is formed by a bottom plate, side walls and a ceiling plate. Optionally, the bottom plate and / or the side walls and / or the ceiling plate can also be made in one piece from a metal plate and communicate with each other via folds. According to the invention, the slot is preferably arranged in the ceiling panel. In a possible embodiment, the bottom plate and the ceiling plate may be parallel to each other. Alternatively or additionally, the side walls may be perpendicular to the bottom plate and / or the ceiling plate. On the ceiling plate, the collar-shaped, along the edges of the slot extending wall regions are preferably attached. The cavity forming housing and in particular the bottom plate and / or the side walls and / or the ceiling plate and / or the collar-shaped wall portions consist of a leifähigen material, in particular sheet metal.

The ceiling plate according to the invention can electrically form part of the reflector. In a possible structural embodiment, a reflector plate may be provided, which runs parallel to the ceiling plate of the cavity. The reflector plate may have a recess into which the ceiling plate - preferably flush - is inserted. Alternatively, the ceiling plate can be arranged below the reflector plate, so that the recess in the reflector plate is smaller than the ceiling plate. Preferably, arranged at the edges of the slot collar-shaped wall portions are attached to the ceiling plate of the cavity and protrude through the recess in the reflector plate upwards.

Alternatively, the ceiling plate and the reflector plate may be integral and formed by a single plate.

In another embodiment, the bottom plate and / or the side walls and / or the ceiling plate may additionally have material recesses and / or consist of a metal grid to reduce the weight and / or the electrical properties such. B. far field and bandwidth to improve. Particularly preferred are material recesses at locations of high and / or low electric field strengths.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the slot has at its narrowest point a first width which is smaller than 0.25 lambda and preferably smaller than 0.15 lambda. Alternatively or additionally, the slot may have at its widest point a second width, which is smaller than 0.5 lambda and preferably smaller than 0.3 lambda. Lambda is in each case the wavelength of the center frequency of the lowest resonance frequency range of the cavity resonator radiator.

Alternatively or additionally, the slot may have its smallest width in a longitudinally central region and have a greater width in the regions arranged longitudinally adjacent to the central region.

Preferably, the slot has a constant first width in the middle region. Alternatively or additionally, the middle region may have a length from 0.1 lambda to 0.5 lambda, preferably from 0.2 lambda to 0.3 lambda. Lambda is the wavelength of the center frequency of the lowest resonant frequency range of the cavity resonator.

In a further preferred embodiment, the width of the slot in the arranged adjacent to the central region outer regions to the outside gradually increase to a second width. It is preferably provided that the width in the outer regions increases gradually over a first partial area to a second width.

Alternatively or additionally, the width may be constant in a second subregion of the outer regions. As an alternative or in addition, in a third subregion, the width can gradually decrease outwards again.

Furthermore, it can be provided according to the invention that the difference between the smallest and the largest width is greater than 0.05 lambda and more preferably greater than 0.1 lambda. Lambda is the wavelength of the center frequency of the lowest resonant frequency range of the cavity resonator. Alternatively or additionally, the difference between the smallest and the largest width may be between 0.5 times and 1.5 times the smallest width.

Particularly preferably, the slot has a dumbbell shape or a bone shape.

Alternatively or additionally, the slot in the longitudinal and / or in the width direction may have a mirror-symmetrical shape relative to the respective center line.

In one possible embodiment of the present invention, the slot may have an overall length of 0.2 lambda to 1.0 lambda, preferably from 0.4 lambda to 0.8 lambda. Particularly preferably, the length is between 0.4 lambda and 0.6 lambda. Lambda is the wavelength of the center frequency of the lowest resonant frequency range of the cavity resonator.

The use of a slot with one of the above dimensions increases the width of the resonant frequency range of the cavity resonator.

The cavity of the cavity resonator is preferably the same length or longer than the slot in the longitudinal direction of the slot.

Alternatively or additionally, the cavity of the cavity resonator in the longitudinal direction of the slot have a length between 0.3 lambda and 1.5 lambda, preferably between 0.5 lambda and 1.0 lambda. Lambda is the wavelength of the center frequency of the lowest resonant frequency range of the cavity resonator.

Alternatively or additionally, the cavity of the cavity resonator in the longitudinal and / or in the width direction with respect to the respective perpendicular to the plane of the reflector extending center plane mirror-symmetrical shape.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the cavity resonator has an excitation structure, which is arranged at a distance between 0.05 lambda and 0.6 lambda, preferably between 0.15 lambda and 0.35 lambda, above the bottom of the cavity of the cavity resonator. Alternatively or additionally, the cavity resonator may have an excitation structure which is arranged at a distance between 0.05 lambda and 0.6 lambda, preferably between 0.15 lambda and 0.35 lambda, below an upper edge of the slot. If the slot is formed by wall areas extending in the height direction, the upper edge of the slot is defined as the upper edge of these wall areas in the vertical direction. Lambda is the wavelength of the center frequency of the lowest resonant frequency range of the cavity resonator.

The corresponding arrangement of the excitation structure results in a particularly good resonance and emission characteristics of the cavity resonator.

The dipole radiator is preferably arranged at a distance between 0.1 lambda and 0.6 lambda, preferably between 0.15 lambda and 0.35 lambda above the reflector. Lambda is the wavelength of the center frequency of the lowest resonant frequency range of the dipole radiator. Alternatively or additionally, the dipole may have a length between 0.3 lambda and 0.7 lambda, preferably between 0.4 lambda and 0.6 lambda. Again, lambda is the wavelength of the center frequency of the lowest resonant frequency range of the dipole radiator.

If the dipole is arranged at a distance between 0.15 lambda and 0.35 lambda above the reflector, this has a directional far field characteristic and a bi-directional far field characteristic at a distance of between 0.4 lambda and 0.6 lambda.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the areas of the reflector in the width direction of the slot, respectively arranged next to the slot in each case starting from the edge of the slot have a width which is at least twice as large as the minimum width of the tip. Preferably, the width is at least twice as large as the maximum width of the tip. Further preferably, the width of the respective areas of the reflector is at least four times and more preferably at least six times as large as the minimum width of the slot, more preferably at least four times and more preferably at least six times as large as the maximum width of the slot. The width of the reflector and / or of the slot ensures that the dipole radiator electrically essentially only sees the reflector, and therefore is not influenced by the cavity resonator of the cavity resonator radiator and achieves a high directivity and low emission angles.

The reflector according to the invention preferably extends in a plane. The above-mentioned width data refer to the extent of the reflector in this plane. In its edge region, the reflector may continue to have bends. The reflector can be formed mechanically by a single reflector plate or by a combination of several plates.

The dipole radiator and the cavity radiator of the dual-polarized antenna according to the invention preferably have different polarizations. In particular, the polarizations are orthogonal to each other.

Alternatively or additionally, the dipole radiator may extend in the longitudinal direction of the slot. In this case, the dipole radiator preferably extends above the slot along the center line of the slot. Alternatively or additionally, the dipole radiator is aligned in the longitudinal and / or in the width direction symmetrically to the edges of the slot.

According to the invention can be achieved by the combination of dipole radiator and cavity radiator despite the respective extent along the same longitudinal axis orthogonal polarizations of the respective radiator. This is due to the fact that the dipole radiator forms an electric dipole. In contrast, the cavity radiator, which radiates through the slot, forms a magnetic dipole along the slot, so that the respective polarizations of the dipole radiator and the magnetic radiator are perpendicular to one another. As a result, an extremely compact arrangement is achieved in the width direction of the slot.

Preferably, the dipole radiator and the cavity resonator have substantially the same or the same resonant frequency ranges. At least one resonant frequency range of the one radiator is preferably contained at least 60% in a resonant frequency range of the other radiator, furthermore preferably at least 80%.

Alternatively or additionally, the two radiators can be used for the same frequency bands or used for receiving and / or transmitting in the same frequency bands.

The dipole radiator according to the invention and the cavity resonator radiator according to the invention have separate ports, and can therefore each be supplied with signals separately.

The dual polarized antenna according to the invention is particularly suitable for being combined with at least one further antenna and preferably a plurality of further antennas to form an antenna arrangement. The antenna (s) may be further dual polarized antennas according to the invention or antennas which are not configured according to the invention and which may also be dual polarized.

The present invention therefore further comprises an antenna arrangement with at least one dual-polarized antenna, as described in more detail above, as well as with at least one further antenna. In this case, the antenna arrangement preferably comprises a plurality of further antennas. The antenna (s) may be dual polarized antennas according to the invention, as described above, and / or to not according to the invention constructed further antennas.

In one possible embodiment of an antenna arrangement according to the invention, the further antenna can be arranged next to the dipole radiator on the reflector. Preferably, the further antenna is arranged in the width direction of the slot next to the dipole radiator on the reflector. The further antenna can be arranged in the longitudinal direction of the slot or the dipole radiator preferably at the same height as the dipole radiator. In particular, the center of the further antenna and the center of the dipole radiator are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the slot at the same height.

Alternatively or additionally, at least two further antennas may be arranged next to the dipole radiator, wherein the antennas are preferably arranged symmetrically in the longitudinal direction of the slot with respect to the central axis of the dipole radiator.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, at least one antenna is arranged on both sides of the dipole radiator. Optionally, several other antennas can be arranged on both sides. The antennas arranged on the respective sides of the dipole radiator are preferably arranged mirror-symmetrically with respect to a plane which is perpendicular to the reflector and extends in the longitudinal direction of the slot and / or the dipole radiator.

The one or more further antennas mentioned above are preferably dual-polarized antennas. However, these need not be designed according to the invention. Rather, dual polarized antennas can also be used in which both polarizations are provided by dipoles. In particular, the further antennas may be antennas which have two dipole radiators oriented orthogonally to one another, in particular around dipole squares.

The further antennas are preferably antennas for another frequency band. Preferably, these are antennas for a higher frequency band. Alternatively or additionally, the further or the further antennas may have a different resonant frequency range than the emitters of the dual-polarized antenna according to the invention, in particular a higher lowermost resonant frequency range.

Further alternatively or additionally, the further or the further antennas may have a lower height above the reflector than the dipole radiator of the antenna according to the invention.

The at least one further antenna preferably has a distance from the dipole radiator according to the invention, which is smaller than 2 lambda and furthermore preferably smaller than 1 lambda, where lambda is the wavelength of the center frequency of the lowermost resonance frequency range of the dipole radiator. The distance is thereby preferably defined as the smallest distance between a radiating region of the further antenna and a radiating region of the dipole radiator according to the invention projected into the reflector plane. Preferably, the distance is less than 0.7 lambda.

According to the invention, the further antenna or the further antennas can couple as parasitic elements to the dipole radiator and / or the cavity resonator radiator of the antenna according to the invention. This achieves a very narrow far-field diagram of the radiator. If a symmetrical arrangement of the further antennas is selected around the dipole radiator according to the invention, the far field is accordingly influenced symmetrically.

In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the antenna arrangement may comprise a plurality of antennas according to the invention as described above. The antennas according to the invention preferably have a common reflector plane. In particular, the antennas can have a common reflector. For example, a common metal plate with recesses for the respective upper sides of the cavity resonators or the slots according to the invention of the cavity resonator radiators can be used as a reflector. However, the reflector plane can also be mechanically composed of a plurality of individual reflector plates.

In a first embodiment, a plurality of antennas according to the invention, as described above, may be arranged in a row next to each other. In this case, the antennas preferably each have alternating, furthermore preferably orthogonal, orientations. The inventively preferred embodiments of the slot or the cavity resonator allow here a particularly compact arrangement of the individual antennas to each other.

In this case, a plurality of such rows of antennas according to the invention can be arranged side by side. In this case, the antennas preferably also in a direction perpendicular to the Rows each alternate, further preferably orthogonal to each other orientations.

In a further embodiment, at least four antennas according to the invention, as described above, may be arranged in a square to each other. In particular, the slots can be arranged in each case on the legs of a square.

The antenna arrangements according to the invention, in which a plurality of antennas according to the invention are combined with one another, can likewise have further antennas, which may not be configured according to the invention. In particular, a combination with the example described above of a combination with at least one further antenna, which is arranged on the reflector, conceivable.

In particular, further antennas can be arranged inside and / or outside the square on the reflector. Alternatively or additionally, a row of further antennas may be arranged next to one or more rows of antennas according to the invention.

The present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to embodiments and drawings. Showing:

1 FIG. 2: an embodiment of the dual-polarized antenna according to the invention in a perspective view,

2 : this in 1 embodiment shown in an exploded view and a sectional view,

3a FIG. 2: the exemplary embodiment in a plan view and in a side view with dimensions of the cavity resonator radiator, FIG.

3b : the embodiment in a side view with dimensions of the dipole radiator,

4 three variants of the embodiment according to the invention, which differ with regard to the position of the collar-shaped wall areas which form the edge of the slot,

5 a first variant for feeding the two radiators, wherein a circuit board for the dipole radiator and a coaxial cable for the cavity resonator are used,

6 : A second variant of the feed of the two radiators, wherein a bi-conical structure of metal is used for the cavity resonator,

7 : a third variant of the feed, wherein printed circuit boards are used for both radiators,

8th : a sectional view through the in 7 shown supply,

9 : a fourth variant of the power supply of the two spotlights, again using circuit boards for both spotlights,

10 : a perspective view of the entire radiator with the in 9 shown supply,

11 : a fifth variant of the feed, again using printed circuit boards for both lamps,

12 : A perspective view of the entire radiator, wherein the excitation structure according to 11 is used,

13 3 shows a perspective view and a sectional view through an exemplary embodiment of an antenna arrangement according to the invention with a dual-polarized antenna according to the invention and two further antennas which are arranged on the reflector,

14 : the E field distribution of the cavity resonator at the in 13 shown embodiment,

15 : the E field distribution of the dipole radiator at the in 13 shown embodiment,

16 A second exemplary embodiment of an antenna arrangement according to the invention with a dual-polarized antenna according to the invention and a plurality of further antennas arranged on the reflector,

17 FIG. 2 shows a third exemplary embodiment of an antenna arrangement according to the invention, in which a plurality of antennas according to the invention having an alternating orientation are arranged in a row, FIG.

18 FIG. 4 shows a fourth exemplary embodiment of an antenna arrangement according to the invention, in which antennas according to the invention with alternating orientation are arranged in two rows, FIG.

19 A fifth exemplary embodiment of an antenna arrangement according to the invention which four dual polarized antennas according to the invention are arranged in a square, and

20 : a top view of in 19 shown antenna arrangement according to the invention.

In 1 to 3 an embodiment of a dual polarized antenna according to the invention is shown. The dual-polarized antenna according to the invention is preferably an antenna for a mobile radio base station. The antenna is used for transmitting and / or receiving mobile radio signals in a base station of a mobile network.

According to the invention, the two radiators 1 and 2 , which produce the two polarizations of the dual polarized antenna according to the invention, are different in nature. The two spotlights 1 and 2 However, they have a common reflector 3 on. The two radiators are with respect to the reflector 3 arranged so that the polarization is generated over the common reflector, the other, this preferably orthogonal polarization under the common reflector 3 ,

According to the invention, the first polarization is via a dipole radiator 1 generates the second polarization via a cavity resonator 2 , The cavity resonator 2 is located below the reflector and radiates through a slot 4 in the reflector 3 , The dipole radiator 1 is arranged above the reflector, wherein a signal line 5 of the dipole radiator 1 through the slot 4 goes through it.

The individual components of the dual-polarized antenna according to the invention are in particular in 2 clearly visible. On the left, the entire dual polarized antenna is shown in a perspective view and a sectional view. Right is the top of the dipole radiator 1 shown. The dipole radiator 1 has two dipole halves 6 on, which run parallel to the plane of the reflector. The two dipole arms are connected via the signal lines 5 supplied with signals. The signal lines 5 extend from the cavity of the Hohlraumresonatorstrahlers through the slot up through to the two dipole halves 6 ,

In 1 and 2 For reasons of better clarity, only the conductive structure is shown, which can be realized on the one hand as metallization of a printed circuit board or on the other hand as a sheet metal structure. If a printed circuit board is used, this also extends through the slot 4 and forms a support for the dipole radiator 1 , If a sheet metal structure is used, the signal lines simultaneously form the support for the dipole radiator.

Right below in 2 the cavity resonator is shown. The cavity 8th of the cavity resonator 2 has a bottom plate 10 , a ceiling tile 11 as well as side walls 9 on, which extend from the bottom plate to the ceiling plate. In the ceiling plate 11 is the slot 4 arranged, through which radiates the cavity resonator.

At the in 1 and 2 embodiment shown is the slot 4 by circumferential, collar-shaped wall areas 12 surround. In the exemplary embodiment, these form a plane perpendicular to the reflector plane. These wall areas improve the directivity of the cavity resonator. The walls of the cavity are made of an electrically conductive material, preferably made of sheet metal. The excitation of the cavity resonator 2 takes place through a probe extending into the cavity 7 , The probe preferably runs parallel to the reflector plane and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the slot in the cavity.

In the exemplary embodiment is still the excitation structure 7 through a recess 28 in the the signal lines 5 and the dipole antenna 6 carrying circuit board 19 passed.

The ceiling plate 11 of the cavity 8th of the cavity resonator 2 can electrically form part of the common resonator of the two radiators. At the in 1 and 2 the embodiment shown is the ceiling plate 11 for this flush in a corresponding recess 13 the resonator plate inserted. In alternative embodiments, however, the resonator could also on the ceiling plate 11 be laid, or the ceiling tile 11 be carried out integrally with the resonator.

The cavity resonator and the dipole radiator are combined in the embodiment to form an orthogonally polarized antenna. In this case, the dipole radiator extends 1 parallel to the slot 4 of the cavity resonator 2 ,

The dipole 1 extends parallel to the slot 4 and perpendicular to the excitation structure 7 of the cavity resonator. This produces cavity resonator 2 and dipole 1 orthogonal polarizations. Due to the parallel arrangement of slot 4 and dipole 1 Nevertheless, one results in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal extent of the slot 4 very compact arrangement.

Preferred dimensions of the dual polarized antenna according to the invention will now be described with reference to FIG 3a and 3b described in more detail. The individual on the basis of the concrete Embodiment illustrated values can also be taken individually and used independently of the other values advantageous. All values are related with respect to the wavelength lambda of the center frequency of the lowest resonance frequency range of the respective radiator, ie with regard to the dimensions in 3a to that of the cavity resonator, with regard to the dimensions in 3b on the dipole radiator.

A resonant frequency range is a coherent frequency range with a better fit of 6 dB (eg for mobile telephone antennas), or better 10 dB (eg microcell antennas) or better 14 dB (eg macrocell antennas). In this case, the lowest resonant frequency range is preferably understood to be the lowest resonant frequency range used for operating the antenna.

In each case, the wavelength specified with regard to the dimensioning is the effective wavelength, ie. H. around the wavelength in the corresponding medium. It is conceivable to fill the slot and / or the cavity with dielectric. As a result, manufacturing costs, dimensions and electrical and mechanical properties can be influenced.

In particular, z. B. the cavity can be completely filled with dielectric to reduce the dimensions. In this case, the dimensions refer to the lambda wavelength in the dielectric. Alternatively or additionally, it may be provided to fill the cavity at least partially with dielectric in order to bind and / or focus the electromagnetic fields in the direction of the reflector plane.

Preferred dimensions of the cavity resonator are now with reference to 3a specified. The dimensions of the cavity resonator are shown with respect to the wavelength lambda of the center frequency of the lowest frequency range of the cavity resonator.

The slot 4 has different widths over its extent. In a middle part 14 the slot has a constant first width B1. The width B1 is less than 0.25 lambda, preferably less than 0.15 lambda.

At the middle region, right and left regions adjoin, in which the width of the slit increases from the first width B1 to a second width B1 + B2. The increase in width is gradual in the embodiment, in particular linear. B2 is less than 0.25 lambda, preferably less than 0.15 lambda. After a short section with a constant width B1 + B2, the width decreases from the outside back to the first width B1. This also takes place gradually, linear in the exemplary embodiment.

The middle area 14 , in which the slot has a constant first width B1, has a length L1 between 0.1 lambda and 0.5 lambda, preferably between 0.2 lambda and 0.3 lambda.

The inventive bone shape of the slot with the lateral areas 15 , in which the width of the slot increases starting from the center, thereby increasing the bandwidth of the cavity resonator.

The maximum width of the slot B1 + B2 is less than 0.5 lambda, preferably less than 0.3 lambda.

The total length of the slot is 0.2 lambda to 1 lambda, preferably 0.4 lambda to 0.8 lambda.

The side walls 9 the cavity of the cavity are in the embodiment at a constant distance from the edges of the slot 4 arranged. In particular, the side walls follow the course of the slot at a substantially constant distance in the width direction. The distance between the side walls of the cavity and the edges of the slot in the width direction B3 is less than 0.25 lambda, preferably less than 0.15 lambda.

In the embodiment, the arranged on the two longitudinal sides of the slot or the cavity side walls of the cavity are arranged at a certain distance in the longitudinal direction of the ends of the slot. However, this is not absolutely necessary.

According to the invention, the cavity resonator thus up to a constant distance or offset the same shape as the slot in the reflector. Furthermore, the shape of the cavity resonator may be an enlargement of the shape of the slot.

The illustrated shape of the cavity of the cavity has, as will be shown in more detail below, advantages in the nesting of several inventive antennas. However, other shapes of the slot and the cavity are conceivable.

The total length of the cavity of the cavity L3 is between 0.3 lambda and 1.5 lambda, preferably between 0.5 lambda and 1 lambda.

B1, B2 and / or B3 in each case are preferably more than 0.05 lambda, more preferably more than 0.1 lambda.

In the height direction in the embodiment, the side walls 9 extending from the bottom plate 10 to the ceiling plate 11 extend, just executed. Furthermore, these side walls are perpendicular to the plane of the reflector. However, here also gradations and / or slopes are conceivable.

The edges of the slot 4 are as a gradation 12 formed, which in the embodiment with a height H0 in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the ceiling plate 11 or the reflector 3 extends. This gradation 12 surrounds the slot on all sides 4 and ensures an improved directivity. The height H0 is 0 lambda to 0.4 lambda, preferably between 0.1 lambda and 0.2 lambda.

In the embodiment in 1 to 3 is shown a single gradation, which differs from the plane of the ceiling tile 11 or the reflector 3 extends upwards. As will be shown below, however, other gradations or other arrangements of gradation are conceivable.

The excitation structure 7 for the cavity resonator is preferably halfway between the top edge 15 of the slot, which passes through the upper edge of the fold 12 is formed, and by the bottom plate 10 formed lower edge of the cavity arranged. This midplane carries in 3 the reference number 17 ,

Alternatively or additionally, the distance H1 is between the height position of the excitation structure 7 and the upper edge of the slot or the cavity resonator between 0 lambda and 0.6 lambda, preferably between 0.15 lambda and 0.35 lambda. Further alternatively or additionally, the distance H2 between the height position 17 the excitation structure 7 of the cavity resonator and through the bottom plate 10 formed lower level 18 between 0 lambda and 0.6 lambda, preferably between 0.15 lambda and 0.35 lambda.

In 3b are the dimensions of the dipole radiator 1 of the embodiment shown. The dimensions of the dipole are represented with respect to the wavelength lambda of the center frequency of the lowest frequency range of the dipole.

The dipole 1 has a length L4 between 0.3 lambda and 0.7 lambda, preferably between 0.4 lambda and 0.6 lambda. The length L4 of the dipole 1 measured here as the distance between the respective outer ends of the two dipole halves 6 of the dipole 1 ,

Depending on the bandwidth and antenna diagram or the desired field properties are different heights H3 of the dipole 1 above the reflector plane 15 conceivable. The height is preferably between 0.1 lambda and 0.6 lambda, furthermore preferably between 0.2 lambda and 0.3 lambda or between 0.4 lambda and 0.6 lambda. For a directional antenna diagram, the optimum height is 0.25 lambda, for a bidirectional antenna diagram 0.5 lambda.

In the following, different embodiments of the antenna according to the invention are described in more detail:
In 4 are three embodiments with the designations 000, 003 and 004 shown, which in terms of the collar-shaped fold 12 , which forms the edge of the slot, differ. In all three examples, the height H0 of the collar-shaped fold is identical, and in the exemplary embodiment is 15 mm.

At the top in 4 illustrated embodiment 000, the collar-shaped fold is arranged completely above the cavity, and extends from the ceiling plate or the plane of the reflector 3 up.

In the embodiment 003 shown in the middle, the fold extends from the plane of the ceiling plate or the reflector both upwards, as well as down into the cavity resonator.

In the embodiment 004 shown below, however, the fold extends from the plane of the reflector or the ceiling plate exclusively down into the cavity resonator, and not on the plane of the reflector upwards.

All three embodiments have similar far field diagrams and similar S-parameters and thus show influences on the fine tuning of the antenna.

In the three embodiments, the position of the excitation structure 7 adapted to the position of the upper edge of the slot for the cavity resonator that this is in the height direction at a distance of about 0.25 lambda below the top of the slot. In Embodiments 003 and 004, the excitation structure became 7 therefore arranged correspondingly lower than in the embodiment 000.

In the following, several different embodiments for the supply of the dipole radiator and the cavity resonant radiator will now be described in more detail.

In all described, the dipole radiator may be configured in a first variant as a PCB radiator, and is fed by a waveguide disposed on the circuit board. The waveguide 5 In this case, a signal line formed by the metallization of the printed circuit board and, for example, designed as a microstrip line and / or coupled microstrip line and / or coplanar strip line or coplanar slot line. In the exemplary embodiment, the signal line formed by the metallization of the printed circuit board connects the dipole halves formed by the metallization of the printed circuit board 6 with a feeding point 20 to which the circuit board with a coaxial cable 21 communicates. The use of a printed circuit board 19 As a support for the dipole radiator and / or the signal line has the advantage that a mechanically and structurally extremely simple solution could be found, through which the signal line or the carrier can be guided through the slot of the cavity resonator. This allows the dipole radiator to be positioned over the slot.

Optionally, the printed circuit board may also be used for impedance matching and / or interconnection of the dipole and / or cavity resonator. Alternatively or additionally, filter structures and / or hybrid couplers and / or a balun and / or a field balancing structure for feeding symmetrical and / or differential antennas and / or other structures can be integrated on the printed circuit board. In particular, these structures may also be printed circuits, i. H. to elements that are provided by the metallization of the circuit board.

The coupling of the coaxial cable to the circuit board can be done both within the cavity of the cavity resonator, as well as outside. If it is outside, the printed circuit board is preferably led out of the cavity in a section which carries the feed point, wherein the microstrip line 5 from the point of contact outside the cavity 20 inside the cavity and from there through the slot to the dipole elements 6 is guided.

In a second variant, the dipole radiator can be designed as a sheet metal radiator. In this case, the dipole halves and signal lines are formed by a sheet metal structure. The sheet metal structure may have the same shape and / or configuration as the metallization provided in the first variant. It is only dispensed with a substrate. This can significantly reduce costs.

The excitation structure for the cavity resonator is guided into this through an opening in a side wall of the cavity of the cavity resonator, and runs parallel to the plane of the reflector and perpendicular to the plane of the circuit board of the dipole or perpendicular to the longitudinal extent of the slot.

The excitation structure extends through a recess in the printed circuit board or sheet metal structure of the dipole.

The dipole is arranged with respect to the longitudinal extent and / or with respect to the width direction of the slot centrally above the slot. The same applies in the exemplary embodiment of the signal line, which from the upper edge of the slot up to the two dipole halves 6 is guided. The excitation structure for the cavity resonator is arranged centrally below the slot in the longitudinal direction.

In 5 Now a first embodiment of the supply of the dipole radiator and the cavity resonator is shown. On the left, only the metallization of the printed circuit board, which carries the signal line and the dipole, is shown, as well as the excitation structure 7 for the cavity resonator. On the right is a sectional view through the antenna according to the invention is shown, in which case also the circuit board 19 itself is shown. Alternatively, the metallization shown on the left can also be embodied as a sheet-metal structure without a substrate.

The feeding of the dipole takes place via a feed point 20 which is below the plane excitation structure 7 is disposed within the cavity of the cavity resonator. The there over the coaxial cable 21 fed-in energy is then applied via the waveguide arranged on the printed circuit board or formed by the sheet metal structure 5 , which is designed as a microstrip line, led upwards to the dipole. The circuit board 19 or the sheet metal structure and thus the dipole is thereby suspended in the slot of the cavity resonator. The arrangement of the coaxial cable 21 In the bottom area has the advantage that the field of the cavity resonator is not disturbed by the dipole cable and thus is more symmetrical.

The coaxial cable 21 for feeding the dipole 6 is guided into the cavity through a side wall of the cavity of the cavity resonator.

The excitation structure 7 for the cavity resonator is through an opening in one Side wall of the cavity of the cavity resonator inserted into this, and runs there parallel to the plane of the reflector 3 and perpendicular to the plane of the circuit board 19 or perpendicular to the longitudinal extent of the slot 4 , The excitation structure 7 is through a recess 28 through the circuit board 19 or passed through the sheet metal structure.

In the embodiment in 5 The excitation structure is through the end of a coaxial cable 22 formed, which projects laterally into the cavity resonator. In the embodiment, the outer conductor of the coaxial cable 22 only led to below the slot or to the median plane of the cavity, and then removed. The inner conductor 23 On the other hand, it continues to extend in the direction of the opposite side wall. Both the outer conductor and the inner conductor can be capacitively and / or galvanically coupled to the respective side walls.

The in 6 the second embodiment shown, the same embodiment of the excitation structure of the dipole radiator and the cavity resonator is based, which already to 5 was presented. In addition, however, here are two metallic bodies 25 around the two halves of the excitation structure 7 arranged. In the exemplary embodiment, a biconical structure is thus formed. The two cone bodies 25 are each rotationally symmetrical about the inner conductor 23 or the outer conductor of the coaxial cable 22 arranged and show each other with your two Koni. As a result, the detachment of the wave from the feed cable and / or the excitation of the cavity resonator is favored. In the case of the metallic bodies, this is an adaptation and / or radiator structure of the excitation structure.

At the in 7 . 8th and 9 illustrated embodiments, the excitation of the cavity resonator by a carried on a circuit board 30 arranged or formed by a sheet structure excitation structure. The circuit board 30 or sheet metal structure for excitation of the cavity resonator radiator is orthogonal to the circuit board 29 or sheet metal structure, which the dipole radiator and / or the signal line 5 of the dipole radiator. In 7 On the left, the circuit board structure is shown, and on the right, the metallization without the intermediate circuit boards or the sheet metal structures. In 8th a sectional view through the radiator according to the invention is shown.

The circuit board 29 or the sheet metal structure of the dipole in each case has a recess open to one side 37 . 45 respectively. 47 on, through which the circuit board 30 or the sheet metal structure of the excitation structure can be pushed into an end position in which they the printed circuit board 29 or the sheet metal structure of the dipole radiator interspersed. As a result, a particularly simple installation is possible.

The excitation structure is through a metallization 31 on the circuit board 30 formed, which the cavity resonator perpendicular to the plane of the circuit board 29 the dipole passes through and through the circuit board 29 formed center plane is extended. The metallization strip 31 over the PCB opposite metallization 33 on the other hand, it is only guided to the middle of the cavity. The two metallization strips 31 and 33 stand over a feed point 34 with a coaxial cable 32 in connection. Instead of a metallization, in turn, a corresponding sheet metal structure can be used.

For the concrete form of metallization 31 and 32 or the circuit board 30 the excitation structure or the corresponding sheet metal structure, as well as the location of the feed points, different configurations are conceivable. So here too the feeding point 34 lie inside or outside the cavity.

At the in 7 and 8th embodiment shown is the circuit board 30 , which carries the excitation structure for the cavity resonator, or the sheet metal structure of the excitation structure aligned parallel to the plane of the reflector. The feeding point 34 is located inside the cavity resonator, near a side wall, so that the coaxial cable 32 inside with the circuit board 30 or the sheet metal structure is in communication and in a floor area 10 through an opening arranged there 39 is led out of the cavity. In this embodiment, also the feed point 20 with which the coaxial cable 21 with the signal lines 35 . 36 for the dipole radiator, within the cavity of the cavity resonator. The coaxial cable 21 is through an opening 38 in a sidewall 9 led out of the cavity.

The feeding point 20 for the dipole radiator is below the feed point 34 arranged for the cavity resonator. For this purpose, the circuit board 29 or the sheet metal structure a laterally open recess 37 on, through which the circuit board 30 or the sheet structure of the excitation structure passes. The the signal line 5 forming metallization 35 . 36 on the circuit board 29 of the dipole radiator is arcuate from the bottom feed point 20 led around the recess and thus the excitation structure around. Are the signal lines 5 of the dipole radiator formed by a sheet-metal structure, this has a recess for the excitation structure by the arcuate guidance of the signal lines.

In 9 is shown a further embodiment, wherein on the left the respective printed circuit board structures, and on the right only the metallization without the printed circuit boards or the sheet metal structure is shown. 10 shows the in 9 shown printed circuit board structure incorporated into the cavity of the cavity resonator.

At the in 9 and 10 The embodiments shown are the feed points 20 ' and 34 ' for the dipole radiator and the excitation structure in each case outside the cavity of the cavity resonator. The printed circuit boards used for this purpose 29 ' respectively. 30 ' For this purpose, sheet metal structures have corresponding extensions with which they pass through recesses in the bottom or in the side wall of the cavity resonator radiator.

This in 9 and 10 embodiment shown further comprises another mechanical configuration. The circuit board 29 ' has side wings 38 on, with which it can be connected to the side walls of the cavity of the cavity resonator. Furthermore, she has feet 39 and 40 with which she goes through slots in the bottom plate. One of the feet also carries the entry point 20 over which the coaxial cable with the metallizations 35 ' and 36 ' , which form the signal lines and the dipole radiator, communicates.

The circuit board 30 ' or sheet metal structure for the excitation structure 7 is about one to a lower side edge of the circuit board 29 ' open recess 44 in the circuit board 29 ' Slidable in position. The metallizations 31 ' and 33 ' or sheet metal elements, which form the excitation structure, are each formed triangular in order to increase the bandwidth.

The circuit board 30 ' or sheet metal structure is on both sides of the side walls 9 mechanically fastened to the cavity, and in particular in there provided in slots 43 inserted. Furthermore, here also a galvanic and / or capacitive coupling of the metallizations 31 ' and 33 ' or sheet metal elements with the respective side walls done. The feeding point 34 ' is led out in the middle.

As in 10 in more detail, the walls forming the cavity continue to have tabs through which the coaxial cables 21 and 32 are guided and thereby mechanically held.

This in 11 and 12 embodiment shown substantially corresponds to the in 9 and 10 shown embodiment with the difference that the circuit board 30 '' or the sheet metal structure which carries or forms the excitation structure, now perpendicular to the reflector plane and perpendicular to the circuit board 29 '' or sheet metal structure of the dipole radiator is aligned. This must be for inserting the circuit board 30 ' or the sheet metal structure which carries or forms the excitation structure, only a narrow slot 45 in the circuit board 29 '' or sheet metal structure of the dipole radiator may be provided.

In general, the ends of the respective metallization or sheet metal structure, which the excitation structure 7 forms widened towards the middle part to favor the separation of the waves. In the same way, the ends of the two dipole halves can be made widened.

The dual polarized antenna according to the invention is particularly suitable for use in a group antenna in which the dual polarized antenna according to the invention is combined with at least one further antenna to form an antenna arrangement and / or nested.

On the one hand is a nesting of the antenna according to the invention with differently designed radiators or differently configured antennas, such. As vector dipoles or cross dipoles, conceivable. The further antenna or further antennas can be operated in the same frequency band and / or in a different frequency band than the dual-polarized antenna according to the invention. The further antenna or the further antennas preferably have different resonance frequency ranges compared with the resonance frequency ranges of the dual-polarized antenna according to the invention.

In 13 Now, a first embodiment of such an antenna arrangement is shown in which a dual polarized antenna according to the invention 48 with two more spotlights 49 and 50 was combined. The two other spotlights 49 and 50 are on the reflector 3 arranged the antenna according to the invention. The reflector 3 thus forms a common reflector for all antennas.

For the two other antennas 49 and 50 these are dual-polarized antennas which are formed from two orthogonally oriented dipole radiators, in particular by two dipole squares. These are symmetrical with respect to the width direction and the longitudinal direction of the slot 4 next to the dipole 1 or the slot 4 arranged.

The other radiators are used in the embodiment for a frequency range which is above the frequency range of the antenna according to the invention. The height is corresponding the antennas 49 and 50 above the reflector 3 less than the height of the dipole 1 ,

In the exemplary embodiment, the antenna according to the invention is used for the frequency range 1427 to 1550 MHz, and has a frequency range optimized for this purpose. The other antennas 49 and 50 In contrast, 1695 to 2690 MHz are used for the frequency range and have a correspondingly optimized frequency range.

In the 13 shown nesting has the advantage that the other dipoles 49 and 50 the far field characteristics of the dual polarized antenna according to the invention 48 influence positively. Like the in 14 and 15 show shown E-field distributions, the other antennas act 49 and 50 as parasitic elements in particular for the cavity resonator and narrow the far field diagram.

Another embodiment of a high integration density antenna array is shown in FIG 16 shown. It is on the reflector 3 the antenna according to the invention a plurality of other antennas 49 and 50 arranged. The arrangement is symmetrical with respect to that through the dipole 1 formed median plane. The further antennas are dual-polarized antennas, which are formed from two orthogonally oriented dipole radiators, in particular by two dipole squares, and / or by antennas for a higher frequency range. In the exemplary embodiment, two rows of four antennas each are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the slot next to each other.

Alternatively or in addition to the combination with other, different types of antennas, a plurality of antennas according to the invention can also be interleaved with one another. Here too, the antennas according to the invention can be used for the same and / or different frequency bands or with the same and / or different resonance frequency ranges.

In 17 an arrangement is shown in which several antennas according to the invention in a row 65 are arranged side by side. In each case, antennas alternate 60 and 61 with mutually orthogonal alignments in the row. The inventive bone shape of the cavities of the cavity resonators results in this, as in 17 shown below, a particularly compact arrangement in the series. For the individual antennas is a common reflector plate 3 used.

In 18 is shown a further embodiment of such interleaving, in which two rows 65 and 66 from how in 17 shown nested antennas are arranged side by side. The antennas are arranged both in the row direction, as well as perpendicular to the row in each case with orthogonal alignment to each other. Again, results in a particularly compact orientation.

At the in 19 and 20 shown arrangement four antennas according to the invention are arranged in a square. Here, in the exemplary embodiment, two radiators 70 optimized for the frequency band 824 to 880 MHz, two antennas 71 for the frequency band 880 to 960 MHz. The antennas are arranged in a square with a side length D2 of 230 mm.

Furthermore, within the square formed by the antennas according to the invention further emitters 73 , and outside more spotlights 72 arranged. The other radiators can be optimized for example for the frequency band 1696 to 2690 MHz and / or 1350 to 2170 MHz. The further radiators are preferably dual-polarized dipole radiators, which in turn on the common reflector 3 are arranged.

In one possible embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of radiators of the antenna or antenna arrangement can be combined with one another in order to carry out an impedance compensation and / or phase compensation and / or a far-field compensation via the interconnection.

For example, the dipole radiator according to the invention and the cavity resonator radiator according to the invention can also be interconnected independently of the combination of the antenna according to the invention with other antennas.

If several emitters according to the invention are used, these can also be connected together as desired. This is especially true for the in 17 and 18 nesting possibilities shown in which various interconnections of the individual radiators are possible.

Furthermore, it is conceivable for all the dual-polarized antennas according to the invention to perform a polarization rotation from a VH pole to an X pole. This can be done either by a spatial rotation of the antenna, and / or by an electrical interconnection of the radiator. Such interconnection can be z. B. over 90 ° / 180 °, x-degree hybrid coupler.

The antenna according to the invention is characterized by a relatively strong orientation of the far field diagram. In particular, the Antenna thereby prefers a half width of the far field diagram of 90 ° or less. If further antennas are placed next to the antenna according to the invention, the half-width can hereby be reduced to less than 80 °, preferably to less than 65 °.

In the exemplary embodiment, the antenna according to the invention has been optimized for the frequency range of 880 and 960 MHz. However, the spotlight concept is easily scalable. In particular, it is conceivable to use the radiator concept according to the invention at the higher frequency range. Furthermore, a doubling or multiplication of the bandwidth is conceivable.

Preferably, the dipole radiator and the cavity radiator have substantially matching resonant frequency ranges. In particular, the resonant frequency range of one radiator, in particular of the dipole radiator, overlaps at least 80 ° of its overextension with the lowest resonant frequency range of the other radiator, in particular the cavity radiator.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• US 6166701 A [0004]
• US 2012/0081255 A1 [0005]
• EP 2256864 A1 [0006]
• US 5272487 A [0006]
• US 4839663 A [0006]
• CN 102420352 A [0006]
• US 7498994 B2 [0007]
• US 6424309 B1 [0007]

Claims (15)

Dual polarized antenna, with a dipole emitter ( 1 ), a cavity resonator radiator ( 2 ) and a reflector ( 3 ), characterized in that the cavity resonator ( 2 ) below the reflector ( 3 ) and through a slot ( 4 ) radiates in the reflector, and that the dipole radiator ( 1 ) above the reflector ( 3 ) is arranged, wherein a signal line ( 5 ) and / or a carrier ( 19 ) of the dipole radiator ( 1 ) through the slot ( 4 ) goes through. Dual polarized antenna according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the dipole radiator ( 1 ) through the guided through the slot signal line ( 5 ) with a feed point arranged below the reflector ( 20 ) is electrically connected, and / or wherein the dipole radiator ( 1 ) by the carrier ( 19 ) is mechanically held at an arranged below the reflector attachment point, and / or wherein the dipole radiator ( 1 ) and / or the signal line ( 5 ) of the dipole radiator through the metallization of a printed circuit board ( 19 ) are formed, wherein the circuit board from the cavity ( 8th ) of the cavity radiator ( 2 ) up through the slot ( 4 ), wherein the printed circuit board preferably a feed point ( 20 ) of the dipole radiator ( 1 ) and / or one or more mechanical attachment points for attachment to the cavity ( 8th ) of the cavity resonator housing ( 9 . 10 . 11 ), and / or wherein the metallization of the printed circuit board preferably further comprises an impedance matching and / or a filter structure and / or a hybrid head and / or a balun and / or a field balancing structure for feeding symmetrical and / or differential antennas, and / or Dipole radiator ( 1 ) and / or the signal line ( 5 ) and / or the carrier of the dipole radiator are formed by a sheet-metal structure and / or air lines, wherein preferably a base region of the sheet-metal structure forms the signal line ( 5 ) of the dipole radiator and / or the carrier of the dipole radiator ( 1 ) and out of the cavity ( 8th ) of the cavity radiator ( 2 ) up through the slot ( 4 ), and / or wherein a head region of the sheet metal structure, the dipole radiator ( 1 ), and / or an excitation structure ( 7 ) is provided for the cavity radiator, which within the cavity ( 8th ) of the cavity resonator radiator ( 2 ), preferably two of the excitation structure ( 7 ) forming conductors are provided, wherein the excitation structure ( 7 ) or the conductors preferably extend perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the slot and / or parallel to the plane of the reflector, and / or wherein the conductors preferably around the inner conductor ( 23 ) and the outer conductor of a coaxial cable ( 24 ) and / or the conductors are aerial waveguides, and / or wherein the conductors pass through the metallization ( 31 . 33 ) of a printed circuit board ( 30 ), wherein more preferably the first conductor ( 23 . 31 ) over a first part of its extension parallel to the second conductor ( 33 . 24 ) and forms with this a closed or open waveguide, and over a second part runs freely, and / or wherein the conductor or conductors with the side walls ( 9 ) of the resonator are electrically coupled. Dual polarized antenna according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the excitation structure ( 7 ) of the cavity resonator radiator and in particular at least one conductor of the excitation structure ( 7 ) through a recess ( 28 . 37 . 44 . 45 ) of the carrier, in particular by a recess in the dipole radiator ( 1 ) and / or the signal lines ( 5 ) of the dipole radiator bearing circuit board ( 19 . 29 ) or the sheet metal structure forming this, wherein the recess is closed or open to the outside, and / or wherein the excitation structure ( 7 ) and prefers both conductors of the excitation structure ( 7 ) of the cavity resonator radiator through a side wall ( 9 ) of the cavity of the resonant cavity extends or extend into the cavity. Dual polarized antenna according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the feed point ( 20 ) of the dipole radiator ( 1 ) below an excitation structure ( 7 ) of the cavity resonator radiator in the cavity ( 8th ) of the cavity resonator radiator, in particular in a bottom region of the cavity, or outside and preferably below the cavity ( 8th ) of the cavity resonator emitter, and / or wherein in the feed point ( 20 ) of the dipole radiator a coaxial cable ( 21 ) is contacted with a arranged on a circuit board or formed by a sheet metal line. Dual polarized antenna according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the excitation structure ( 7 ) has at least one metallic matching structure and / or radiator structure, wherein preferably the matching structure and / or radiator structure increases the width of the conductors of the excitation structure towards the outside, and / or wherein preferably the matching structure and / or radiator structure comprises a metallic body ( 25 ), wherein the at least one metallic body is preferably arranged around the excitation structure of the cavity resonator, wherein preferably both conductors ( 22 . 23 ) of the excitation structure ( 7 ) a metallic body ( 25 . 26 ), which further preferably has a cylindrical and / or conical section, and / or wherein the matching structure and / or radiator structure forms an additional radiator, in particular a dipole radiator, which excites the cavity radiator and / or wherein the matching structure and / or radiator structure as parasitic element acts. Dual polarized antenna according to one of the preceding claims, wherein along the edges of the slot ( 4 ) collar-shaped wall areas ( 12 ), wherein the wall areas ( 12 ) preferably a step with the reflector ( 3 ), and / or wherein the wall areas ( 12 ) in the height direction preferably has an extension between 0.01 lambda and 0.4 lambda, preferably between 0.05 lambda and 0.2 lambda, lambda being the wavelength of the center frequency of the lowest resonant frequency range of the cavity resonator ( 2 ), and / or wherein the wall portions have a constant height. Dual polarized antenna according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the longitudinal direction of the slot ( 4 ) extending side walls ( 9 ) of the cavity ( 8th ) of the cavity resonator radiator in the width direction from the edges ( 12 ) of the slot ( 4 ) are spaced and preferably follow the shape of the edges of the slot, wherein the distance between the sidewalls and the widthwise edges is preferably less than 0.25 lambda and more preferably less than 0.15 lambda, where lambda is the wavelength the center frequency of the lowest resonant frequency range of the cavity resonator radiator is, and / or wherein the distance between the side walls and the edges in the width direction is preferably greater than 0.05 lambda and preferably greater than 0.1 lambda, wherein lambda to is the wavelength of the center frequency of the lowest resonant frequency range of the cavity resonator, and / or wherein the distance between the sidewalls and the widthwise edges is preferably between 0.5 times and 1.5 times the smallest width of the slot , and / or wherein the distance in the width direction between the side walls and the edges preferably konsta nt, and / or wherein the cavity ( 8th ) of the cavity resonator radiator through a bottom plate ( 10 ), Side walls ( 9 ) and a ceiling plate ( 11 ) is formed, wherein the slot ( 4 ) in the ceiling plate ( 11 ) is arranged and preferably of step-shaped wall areas ( 12 ), which are arranged on the ceiling plate, is surrounded, wherein the bottom plate and the ceiling plate preferably parallel and / or wherein the side walls are preferably perpendicular to the bottom plate and / or ceiling plate. Dual polarized antenna according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the slot ( 4 ) at its narrowest point ( 14 ) has a first width (B1) which is less than 0.25 lambda, and preferably less than 0.15 lambda, where lambda is the wavelength of the center frequency of the lowest resonant frequency range of the cavity resonator, and / or The slot ( 4 ) at its widest point ( 15 ) has a second width (B1 + B2) which is smaller than 0.5 lambda and preferably smaller than 0.3 lambda, where lambda is the wavelength of the center frequency of the lowest resonant frequency range of the cavity resonator, and / or wherein the slot in a longitudinally central region ( 14 ) has its smallest width (B1) and in the longitudinal regions next to the central region arranged outer regions ( 15 ) has a greater width, wherein the slot preferably in the central region has a constant first width (B1), and / or wherein preferably the central region has a length of 0.1 lambda to 0.5 lambda, preferably from 0.2 lambda to Lambda is the wavelength of the center frequency of the lowest resonant frequency range of the cavity resonator, and / or preferably the width of the slot in the adjacent to the central region ( 14 1), the width in the outer regions preferably increases gradually over a first partial area to the second width (B1 + B2) and / or constant in a second partial area at the second width (B1 + B2) and / or gradually decreasing outwards again in a third subregion, and / or wherein preferably the difference (B2) between the smallest and the largest width is greater than 0.05 lambda and more preferred is greater than 0.1 lambda, where lambda is the wavelength of the center frequency of the lowest resonant frequency range of the cavity resonator, and / or preferably wherein the difference (B2) between the smallest and the largest widths between the 0, 5 times and 1.5 times the smallest width (B1), and / or wherein the slot preferably has a dumbbell shape and / or a bone shape. Dual polarized antenna according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the slot ( 4 ) has an overall length L2 of from 0.2 lambda to 1.0 lambda, preferably from 0.4 lambda to 0.8 lambda, where lambda is the wavelength of the center frequency of the lowest resonant frequency range of the cavity resonator radiator. Dual polarized antenna according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cavity ( 8th ) of the cavity resonator radiator in the longitudinal direction of the slot ( 4 ) has a length (L3) between 0.3 lambda and 1.5 lambda, preferably between 0.5 lambda and 1.0 lambda, wherein lambda is the wavelength of the center frequency of the lowermost resonant frequency range of the cavity resonator radiator and / or wherein the cavity resonator has an excitation structure ( 7 ), which is at a distance of between 0.05 lambda and 0.6 lambda, preferably between 0.15 lambda and 0.35 lambda above the ground ( 10 ) the cavity of the cavity resonator is arranged, and / or wherein the cavity resonator an excitation structure ( 7 ), which at a distance of between 0.05 lambda and 0.6 lambda, preferably of between 0.15 lambda and 0.35 lambda below a top edge of the slot ( 4 ), wherein lambda is the wavelength of the center frequency of the lowermost resonant frequency range of the cavity resonator radiator. Dual polarized antenna according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the dipole radiator ( 1 ) at a distance of between 0.1 lambda and 0.6 lambda, preferably between 0.15 lambda and 0.35 lambda above the reflector ( 3 ), wherein lambda is the wavelength of the center frequency of the lowest resonance frequency range of the dipole radiator, and / or wherein the dipole ( 1 ) has a length between 0.3 lambda and 0.7 lambda, preferably between 0.4 lambda and 0.6 lambda, where lambda is the wavelength of the center frequency of the lowermost resonant frequency range of the dipole radiator, and / or wherein the areas of the reflector (10) arranged next to the slot 3 ) in the width direction of the slot in each case starting from the edge of the slot have a width which is at least twice as large as the minimum and preferably the maximum width of the slot ( 4 ), preferably a width which is at least four times and more preferably at least six times as large as the minimum and preferably the maximum width of the slot. Dual polarized antenna according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the dipole radiator ( 1 ) and the cavity resonator radiator ( 2 ) have different and preferably orthogonal polarizations, and / or wherein the dipole radiator ( 1 ) in the longitudinal direction of the slot ( 4 ) and / or wherein the dipole radiator ( 1 ) and the cavity resonator radiator ( 2 ) have substantially the same or the same resonant frequency ranges and / or can be used for the same frequency bands. Antenna arrangement having at least one dual-polarized antenna according to one of the preceding claims, with at least one further antenna. An antenna arrangement according to claim 13, wherein the further antenna ( 49 . 50 ) is arranged next to the dipole radiator on the reflector, wherein at least one further antenna is preferably arranged on both sides of the dipole radiator, and / or wherein the antenna (s) ( 49 . 50 ) is preferably dual polarized antennas and / or dipole squares, and / or wherein the one or more further antennas are preferably antennas for another and preferably higher frequency band and / or with a different resonant frequency range of the radiator than that of the dual polarized antenna according to one of the preceding claims, and / or wherein the further or further antennas preferably have a lower height above the reflector than the dipole radiator, and / or wherein the further antenna or the other antennas as parasitic elements with the dipole radiator and / or the cavity resonator emitter couple, and / or wherein the other antennas are arranged symmetrically about the dipole radiator. Antenna arrangement according to Claim 13 or 14, with a plurality of antennas ( 60 . 61 ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the antennas preferably have a common reflector plane ( 3 ) and more preferably have a common reflector, and / or wherein preferably the plurality of antennas according to one of the preceding claims in a row ( 65 ) are arranged side by side, each with alternating, preferably mutually orthogonal orientation, and / or wherein preferably the plurality of antennas ( 70 . 71 ) are arranged according to one of the preceding claims in a square to each other, wherein preferably within and / or outside of the square further antennas ( 72 . 73 ) are arranged on the reflector.

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